Handloads: A Heavy-Hitting 12 Gauge

by
posted on December 19, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
hand12ga.jpg

virtual “pumpkin,” this heavy-hitting 12-ga. load is composed of a 2" Cheddite hull with a Cheddite 209 primer and 26 grs. of Hi-Skor 800-X propellant. That combination launches the 550-gr., 0.715"-wide, hardened lead round ball from a 2558" barrel at 1252 f.p.s., resulting in 1,914 ft.-lbs. of energy. That’s more than many full-house .454 Casull loads. Even from a smoothbore shotgun, accuracy is surprisingly good—measuring 3.16" for 25 shots at 20 yds. Due to its short overall length, which is approximately 1 3/4" when loaded, you’re afforded additional magazine capacity. The end result is a load that’s perfect for protection in the home and around camp, as well as for close-in big-game hunting.

Latest

Trump Atf Reforms F
Trump Atf Reforms F

How the Trump Administration is Reforming the ATF

After more than a year of review, the DOJ, and its sub-agency, the ATF, released 34 notices of final and proposed rules to eliminate infringements on Americans’ Second Amendment rights.

A Tale of Two Grips: Building Beyond the First Shot

Every shooter has two grips living inside them, and most never realize it until they are exposed by a timer.

Roni Corporation Establishes U.S.-Based Manufacturing

Roni Corporation—designer and manufacturer of the Micro Roni, PDW-style pistol-to-carbine conversion kits and other firearm accessories—has established U.S.-based operations and manufacturing in Houston, Texas.

PenFed Credit Union Reports Strong Q1 Growth in 2026

Continuing its record of positive growth over the last several years, NRA partner PenFed Credit Union reported increases in capital and liquidity, earning growth and credit quality through the first quarter of 2026.

I Have This Old Gun: Model 1884 Trapdoor Springfield

The U.S. military's first official breechloading service rifle was the Trapdoor Springfield, and of the line of guns that saw use throughout the late 19th century, one of the most refined was the Model 1884 Trapdoor.

A Retro Python: The Pietta Blacktooth Revolver

As the company did with the original Colt Single Action Army, Pietta sought to reproduce the Colt Python as closely to the original as possible with its new Blacktooth revolver.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.